Ireland with Spike! (June 7-14, 2027)

Begin your Irish adventure in Dublin, a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern charm. Check in your hotel room and shake off the jet lag. We will meet for an early welcome dinner and tour orientation. And if you still have energy, we will wander through the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, known for its lively pubs, traditional music, and vibrant atmosphere.
HOTEL: DUBLIN (2 nights) if you choose to arrive in Dublin even earlier, I can provide hotel info for discounted rates.

On our second day in Dublin, we will do a walking tour of the city, led by my friend Dara who does tours around the world but was born and raised in Dublin. We will trace Ireland’s stone age roots and its Viking origins as we visit Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. We’ll learn about the roots of Ireland’s struggle with the British Empire as we see the GPO, Parliament House and Trinity College. And then on to modern times we stroll along the River Liffey and learn about Ireland’s customs, music and culture. We will visit one of the oldest public libraries in the world (Ireland’s first) where you’ll see some of rare books dating back to the late Middle Ages. Other sights we may see (depending on time) include Christ Church, Grafton Street, St. Stephen’s Green, and more.
After lunch, we’ll visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland’s most famous beer and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar while we drink a pint at the brewery. (An alternative activity will be available for those who don’t enjoy beer.)
You’ll have an opportunity to hang with me or enjoy dinner on your own and explore Dublin at night if you wish!
HOTEL: DUBLIN

How about lunch in Ireland’s oldest pub? And then on to Galway, a vibrant city renowned for its artistic atmosphere, colorful streets, and lively pub culture. Explore the boutique shops, and watch street performers as we enjoy Galway. I’ll show you the jewelry store where the original Claddagh Ring was created. The town is filled with lively music, warm hospitality, and charm.
HOTEL: Galway

Depart Galway in the morning to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Marvel at the sheer cliffs towering above the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline. (Yes, Harry Potter was filmed here!) Learn about the fascinating geology, wildlife, and history of the area. Later, we’ll drive through the unique landscape of The Burren National Park on our way to lunch in Adare, which has been nicknamed “Ireland’s prettiest village.” Adare features a town center of thatched cottages, built in the 19th century. The quaint streets are quite the contrast from busy Galway and Dublin. After we eat lunch in last year’s “Pub Of The Year” winner (out of 5,000 Irish pubs!), we will travel through Limerick on our way to the seaside fishing village of Dingle.
HOTEL: Dingle (2 nights)

After breakfast, we’ll drop in on Aedán Houlihan’s farm for a sheepdog demonstration and maybe even bottle-feed his baby lambs. We’ll see ancient stone round houses, also known as “beehive huts.” If you’re a Star Wars fan, you may have seen Luke Skywalker living in them in “The Last Jedi.” But his Jedi huts were actually real homes for monks in the 6th century.
After lunch at “the most westerly pub in Ireland” with the Blasket Islands and Skellig Michael in the background, we will drive the coastline which consists of striking cliffs, broken by sandy beaches. My favorite place to take photos, we’ll visit Dunmore Head, Coumeenoole Beach, Dunquin Pier, Clogher Head, and the oldest church in Ireland.

After a relaxing morning in Dingle, we will head east and enjoy lunch in Killarney. Then, we’ll arrive at the iconic Rock of Cashel, a medieval fortress perched high on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the ancient ruins, including the impressive Gothic cathedral and round tower, while immersing yourself in Ireland’s rich history. Walk in St. Patrick’s footsteps! Afterwards, we continue our journey to picturesque Kilkenny where we will find amazing dinner choices and three pubs on every block!
HOTEL Kilkenny (2 nights)

Narrow Medieval alleys snake between an imposing castle and a historic 13th century cathedral, craft studios, traditional pubs and riverside walks. This town was the capital of Ireland more than once in Ireland’s turbulent history. We’ll also do an optional day trip to Waterford for half-day. Enjoy dinner on your own, shopping and maybe a pint of ale in a bar haunted by Ireland’s last witch?

Bid farewell to Kilkenny in the morning, our luxury coach will take us back to Dublin Airport for our flight home. (Or our motorcoach can take you back to central Dublin if you wish to extend your stay to Northern Ireland or anywhere else!)